BIOL 300

BIOL 300
Pathophysiology

1. Catalog Entry

BIOL 300
Pathophysiology

Credit hours (3) Three hours lecture.

Prerequisites: BIOL 311 or BIOL 351; BIOL 334 or BIOL 408.

Provides the student with conceptual and theoretical information applicable to pathological conditions resultant in disordered physiology. Mechanisms of production of signs and symptoms of different disease syndromes will be discussed. A body systems approach will be used to present the mechanisms underlying the disease, and the clinical manifestations exhibited.

 

2. Detailed Description of Course

This course introduces students to the study of pathophysiology — the functional changes that accompany disease and injury. The course takes a systems-based approach to examine the mechanisms underlying disease development, progression, and clinical manifestations. Emphasis is placed on the physiological processes that lead to signs and symptoms of disease, as well as on the body’s compensatory responses.

 

Major Units and Subtopics:

1. Foundations of Pathophysiology (Introduction to the concepts of health, illness, and homeostasis, Cellular structure and function, cell injury, adaptation, and death, The aging process and cellular responses to stress, and Environmental hazards, immobility, and substance abuse)
2. Inflammation, Immunity, and Neoplasia (Inflammatory response and tissue repair, Mechanisms of infection and fever, Genetic and congenital disorders; patterns of inheritance, Tumor biology and neoplasia, and Immune response and immune system dysfunction (hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, immunodeficiency, HIV/AIDS)
3. Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid–Base Balance (Mechanisms of fluid regulation, Disorders of sodium, potassium, and water balance, Acid-base disturbances and compensatory mechanisms)
4. Hematologic and Cardiovascular Disorders (Disorders of hemostasis, red and white blood cells, and lymphatic system, Disorders of cardiac function and blood pressure and Mechanisms and consequences of shock)
5. Respiratory and Renal Disorders (Pulmonary structure, function, and gas exchange, Common respiratory disorders (asthma, COPD, pneumonia), and Renal function, acute and chronic kidney disease)
6. Endocrine, Gastrointestinal, and Metabolic Disorders (Regulation of endocrine function and feedback mechanisms, Disorders of the thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary glands, Diabetes mellitus and glucose regulation, and Disorders of the gastrointestinal system)
7. Musculoskeletal, Integumentary, and Nervous System Disorders (Musculoskeletal injuries and degenerative conditions, Disorders of the skin and connective tissues, and Neurological and sensory disorders (stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s, sensory loss)
8. Reproductive and Developmental Disorders (Male and female reproductive system disorders, Sexually transmitted infections, and Pregnancy-related complications and developmental abnormalities)
9. Integration and Clinical Application (Application of pathophysiologic concepts to case studies, Clinical correlations and diagnostic reasoning, and Interpretation of patient data and symptoms)

 

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

 

Student Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this course, students will be able to:

1. Describe normal anatomy and physiology of major body systems and identify how these systems are altered by disease.
2. Explain the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying pathologic processes.
3. Differentiate among the causes, mechanisms, and manifestations of major diseases across organ systems.
4. Analyze case studies to identify underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms and appropriate treatment strategies.
5. Evaluate fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base imbalances and predict physiological outcomes.
6. Interpret clinical data and correlate physiological changes with symptoms and laboratory findings.
7. Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to connect pathophysiological knowledge with clinical decision-making.

 

Assessment Measures

Assessment will include multiple formats designed to evaluate students’ comprehension, analytical skills, and application of pathophysiologic principles:

• Unit Exams (3 total): Evaluate understanding of core concepts across body systems.
• Comprehensive Final Exam: Integrates material from all units, assessing mastery and synthesis of information.
• Quizzes (8 total): Reinforce short-term learning and ensure engagement with weekly material.
• Case Study Assignments (5 total): Apply theoretical knowledge to clinical scenarios; assess analytical and written communication skills.

 

Other Course Information

Representative Reading:

• VanMeter, K.C. & Hubert, R.J. (2022). Gould’s Pathophysiology for the Health Professions (7th Edition). Elsevier.
• Supplemental Resources:
• Peer-reviewed journal articles and online resources provided through D2L.
• Lecture slides, clinical case examples, and recorded discussions.

 

Review and Approval

June 28, 2019

February 2, 2026